'Vetiver Grass Ideal For Himalayas': Environmentalist Proposes Solution To Mitigate Landslides

News18

2 days ago

VC Shreeram Nath said Himachal Pradesh has already taken proactive steps in this direction, adding Uttarakhand must too.
In the wake of the devastating cloudburst and mudslide in Uttarkashi on August 5, which led to widespread destruction and loss of life, environmental experts are urging state governments to adopt long-term, nature-based solutions for disaster mitigation. One such advocate is VC Shreeram Nath, Founder and Secretary of the Rameswaram VETIVER & Environmental Foundation, who spoke to CNN-News18 about the critical role Vetiver grass can play in stabilising fragile mountain ecosystems.
'Vetiver grass is highly effective for soil stabilisation and erosion control, especially in the Himalayan regions where landslides and flash floods are becoming more frequent and deadly," said Nath. He pointed out that Himachal Pradesh has already taken proactive steps in this direction. Pilot projects in districts like Kullu, Mandi, and Kangra have shown a remarkable 60 per cent reduction in soil erosion, providing a proof of concept that could be replicated across other Himalayan states, including Uttarakhand, he said.
What is Vetiver Grass?
Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is known for its unique root system, which grows vertically up to 3–4 metres deep, anchoring the soil firmly and reducing the risk of landslides. Its ability to trap sediment and slow down water runoff makes it particularly useful in flash flood-prone regions. 'By acting as a natural barrier, it not only protects riverbanks and highways but also reduces the speed and volume of water during heavy rains," Nath explained.
What sets Vetiver apart is its resilience. Nath explained how it thrives in poor, rocky soils and extreme weather conditions — characteristics common in the Himalayan terrain. The grass has already been successfully used in other regions to reinforce road cuttings, buffer landslide-prone slopes, and even rehabilitate degraded landscapes. Moreover, its low cost and minimal maintenance needs make it a highly scalable and climate-resilient solution.
As Uttarakhand reels from yet another natural disaster, Nath emphasised the urgency of integrating such ecological approaches into the region's disaster management and infrastructure planning. 'Vetiver isn't just a plant — it's a strategy," he said. 'It offers a practical, affordable, and sustainable way to protect lives and livelihoods in the mountains."
With climate change intensifying the frequency of extreme weather events, experts like Nath believe that embracing nature-based solutions such as Vetiver grass could be key to building long-term resilience in India's vulnerable hill states.
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